“Let us not get tired of doing good, for we will reap at the proper time if we don’t give up.” Galatians 6:9 CSB
Midway through December, you may be feeling the effects of the season. The long days may be catching up with you. Lack of sleep and overindulgence in holiday sweets may be making you feel lethargic. Over consuming alcohol is typical this time of year, morning exercise routines are forsaken for the extra minutes of sleep instead. Holidays are stressful and exhausting, but they are also one of the easiest times to talk about Jesus. Even the department stores have Christmas carols playing that glorify Jesus. With only a week to go until His birthday, let’s look at some ways we can get a good night’s sleep and be able to finish well this holiday season, glorifying Jesus and spreading His love.
This article from the Cleveland Clinic gives us some helpful suggestions. First, try and maintain your normal sleep schedule. As you plan your holiday activities, allow yourself time to sleep. Schedule to go to bed and get up at the same time every day, even weekends. This will help you establish a normal routine no matter what time of the year it is. Try not to eat at least 2 hours before going to bed, drink a glass of milk instead, it really will help you sleep better. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, both of these will affect a good night’s sleep. Make your bedroom into a sanctuary, warm blankets and fluffy pillows will invite you into their folds for some cozy, dream filled nights. Use a white noise app on your phone, lavender pillow spray or a good book to help you relax at bedtime. Put all thoughts of your to do list out of your mind and allow your body to find rest. Keep up your exercise routine, whether it’s a walk around the neighborhood or a crossfit class at the gym, don’t stop. Keep moving. Regular exercise helps us all sleep better at night. And lastly, if all else fails, learn relaxation techniques that will help you sleep. Some people count sheep, some people focus on deep breathing, others use prayer to help them relax. Find something that allows you to let go of the days stress so that you can find rest.
When we are able to find rest, we’ll be more alert to the opportunities to share Jesus this holiday season. We’ll be able to respond in love to our frazzled friends and family, helping them find His peace as well. We’ll be able to shine His light brightly for all the world to see because we are well rested. We’ll be able to not give up doing good, knowing we will reap at the proper time what we sow.
Today I’m going to find rest from exhaustion. How can you find rest today? Comment below.
